Tripwire Launcher

ABSTRACT

A tripwire launcher. The tripwire launcher includes a housing having a first end opposite a second end. A handle extends orthogonally from the second end. A barrel is affixed to the first end. A tripwire having weighted elements disposed on opposing ends thereof is dimensioned to removably secure within the barrel. A pressurized gas canister is removably securable to the housing, wherein the pressurized gas canister conditionally in fluid communication with the barrel. A quick-release valve is disposed between the barrel and the pressurized gas canister. A trigger is operably connected to the quick-release valve such that when actuated, the quick-release valve opens to deliver gas stored within the pressurized gas canister through the barrel and propel the tripwire from the barrel.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/822,145 filed on Mar. 22, 2019. The above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to restraint devices. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a suspect restraint device that launches a tripwire via compressed gas release to trip and restrain a suspect.

Many police officers require a nonlethal option when engaging a suspected criminal, dispersing a crowd, or disarming a dangerous situation, such as a riot. Oftentimes, suspected criminals flee from a crime scene on foot. Typically, police officers must engage in a chase to capture and subdue such suspected criminals. Often, in order to end the chase and prevent further harm to the public, an officer may be authorized to fire a weapon towards the suspected criminal. While some such weapons are non-lethal, a firearm also risks endangering any innocent civilians or bystanders in the area. These potentially lethal rounds risk unintentional killing of the suspected criminal as well as any unlucky bystanders. Alternatively, the firearm may cause severe and life-changing injuries to those in the line of fire.

In some cases, similar situations may arise in the field of animal control, where personnel tasked with capturing and securing a wild animal may be required to use potentially lethal force to prevent greater injuries to the surrounding populace, such as spread of communicable diseases like rabies. This also risks the dangers described above. Therefore, a device that can subdue a suspected criminal or dangerous animal in a non-lethal manners desired.

In light of the devices disclosed in the known art, it is submitted that the present invention substantially diverges in design elements from the known art and consequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement to existing suspect restraint devices. In this regard, the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of suspect restraint devices now present in the known art, the present invention provides a suspect restraint device wherein the same can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when apprehending a running suspect via utilization of a launched tripwire.

The present system comprises a housing having a first end opposite a second end, wherein a handle extends orthogonally from the second end. A barrel is affixed to the first end. A tripwire having weighted elements disposed on opposing ends thereof is dimensioned to removably secure within the barrel. A pressurized gas canister is removably securable to the handle, wherein the pressurized gas canister is conditionally in fluid communication with the barrel. A quick-release valve is disposed between the barrel and the pressurized gas canister and is operably connected to a trigger, such that when the trigger is actuated, gas stored within the pressurized gas canister is expelled through the barrel. In this way, the tripwire secured therein is launched from the barrel towards an intended target.

In some embodiments, a reservoir is disposed within the housing, wherein the reservoir is disposed between the pressurized gas canister and the barrel. The reservoir serves to allow a user to charge a specific volume of gas within the housing to launch the tripwire when the trigger is actuated.

In some embodiments, the tripwire comprises a plurality of lines extending from a connection point, wherein each of the plurality of lines includes a weighted element on a distal end thereof. In additional embodiments, the plurality of lines are disposed equiangularly about the connection point. In this way, the tripwire is balanced and optimized for travel from the barrel towards the intended target. In a further embodiment, the weighted elements are permanently affixed to the distal end of each of the plurality of lines, such that movement of the weighted element along the plurality of lines does not impede flight of the tripwire once launched from the barrel. Additionally, in some embodiments, the weighted elements comprise spherical members, such that the frictional drag caused by the weighted elements during flight is minimized.

In some embodiments, a foregrip extends orthogonally from a first end of the housing, such that a user can support the first end of elongated housing, thereby aiding in aiming the tripwire launcher. In further embodiments, the foregrip and the handle are coplanar to further aid in precision aiming of the tripwire launcher. Additionally, in a further embodiment, a laser emitter is disposed on the first end of the housing, wherein the laser emitter emits a sighting laser along a line parallel to that of a longitudinal axis of the barrel, allowing a ore readily aim the tripwire launcher at an intended target.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.

FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the tripwire launcher.

FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the tripwire launcher.

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the tripwire launcher.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the tripwire of an embodiment of the tripwire launcher.

FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of the tripwire launcher.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the tripwire launcher. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, there are shown perspective views of various embodiments of the tripwire launcher. The tripwire launcher 11 comprises a housing 12 having a first end 13 opposite a second end 14. A handle 15 extends orthogonally away from the second end 14 of the housing 12, such that a user is provided a gripping surface. A barrel 16 is affixed to the first end 13, wherein the barrel 16 is configured to receive a tripwire (as shown in FIG. 3, 17) therein. In the illustrated embodiments, the barrel 16 comprises a cylindrical cross-section coaxially aligned with the housing 12. In this way, the user can accurately aim the tripwire launcher 11 towards a desired target by aligning the housing 12 towards the target. A length of the barrel 16 can vary across embodiments, such that a user can select a tripwire launcher 11 for a desired use. In this way, the user can selectively balance desirable attributes in the tripwire launcher 11, such as portability (as with embodiments with a shorter barrel 16) and accuracy (as with embodiments with a longer barrel 16) of the device. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1A, the barrel 16 comprises a transparent material, such that a user can visualize whether the tripwire is properly stored within the barrel 16.

A pressurized gas canister 20 is removably secured to the handle 15, wherein the pressurized gas canister 20 is conditionally in fluid communication with the barrel 16 through the housing 12. A trigger 22 is affixed to the housing 12 and is operably connected to a quick-release valve (as shown in FIG. 2, 21). In this way, the pressurized gas canister 20 can selectively release a desired amount of pressurized gas through the housing 12 to be expelled through the barrel 16 upon actuation of the trigger 22, allowing a tripwire placed within the barrel 16 to be fired therefrom. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1A, the pressurized gas canister 20 is removably secured to the handle 15 via a lever 31, wherein the lever 31 frictionally engages the pressurized gas canister 20 within the handle 15 when actuated. The pressurized gas canister 20 can comprise a variety of form-factors known in the art and can alternately be stored entirely within the handle 15, such that the pressurized gas canister 20 is not visible.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1B, the housing 12 is elongated to provide a rifle configuration of the tripwire launcher 11. The elongated housing 12 of FIG. 1B provides several benefits, such as increasing the volume of charged gas stored therein before actuation of the trigger 22 releases the charged gas through the barrel 16. In this way, the embodiment of FIG. 1B can launch a tripwire with greater force than the embodiment of FIG. 1A, such that a target can be subdued at an increased range. In the shown embodiment of FIG. 1B, a foregrip 27 extends orthogonally from the housing 12 at a first end 13 thereof. The foregrip 27 allows a user to support the first end 13, providing additional stability thereto, thereby increasing accuracy. In the shown embodiment, the foregrip 27 is coplanar with the handle 15, ensuring that the housing 12 is properly and comfortably aligned when in use.

In the shown embodiment of FIG. 1B, a laser emitter 29 is disposed on the first end 13 of the housing 12. The laser emitter 29 is configured to emit a visible laser along the firing path of the tripwire to assist in aiming. In some embodiments, the laser emitter 29 is configured to emit a visible laser along a path substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the barrel 16, however, in alternate embodiments, the laser emitter 29 can be adjusted to zero the emitted visible laser at a desired range, such that a user can selectively adjust the point at which the visible laser indicates an accurate firing path. In various embodiments, the laser emitter 29 can be activated via a separate control disposed on the housing, or alternatively via partial depression of the trigger 22. For example, upon an initial partial depression of the trigger 22, the laser emitter 29 can actuate, and upon further depression of the trigger 22, the quick-release valve is actuated, allowing the tripwire launcher 11 to fire.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the tripwire launcher. As previously discussed, the trigger 22 is operably connected to the quick-release valve 21. In the shown embodiment, the quick-release valve 21 is connected to the trigger 22 via a mechanical linkage, however, alternate trigger 22 actuation mechanisms known in the art are also contemplated. Specifically, in the shown embodiment, the mechanical linkage comprises an armature connected to each of the quick-release valve 21 and the trigger 22 at opposing ends thereof, such that when the trigger 22 is actuated, the armature pivots about a central point, causing the quick-release valve 21 to move in a direction opposite of the trigger's 22 actuation. In the illustrated embodiment, the quick-release valve 21 comprises a malleable head configured to form an airtight seal within an opening between the barrel 16 and the housing 12. The malleable head can comprise any of a variety of materials, including but not necessarily limited to silicon, rubber, and the like. In operation, when the trigger 22 is actuated, the malleable head moves away from the opening between the housing 12 and the barrel 16, allowing charged pressurized gas within a reservoir 30 of the housing 12 to release through the opening to be expelled through the barrel 16. In this way, the tripwire 17 stored within the barrel 16 can be fired therefrom, propelling the tripwire 17 towards a desired target. In some exemplary uses, a wadding can be placed within the barrel 16 between the opening and the tripwire 17, such that the entirety of the force generated by the release of the compressed gas from the housing 12 is transferred into the wadding, which in turn transfers the generated force into the tripwire 17. In this way, the user is ensured maximal efficiency of force transfer from the housing 12 to the tripwire 17.

In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 12 further comprises the reservoir 30 therein, wherein the reservoir 30 is configured to store a limited volume of pressurized gas from the pressurized gas canister 20 therein. In this way, the pressurized gas canister 20 is isolated from the barrel 16, allowing a user to more precisely control how much gas is released upon depression of the trigger 22. The reservoir 30 can be dimensioned to store a desired among of pressurized gas therein, such that an optimal volume for launching the tripwire 17 a desired distance can be achieved. In this way, each time the tripwire launcher is fired, the user is assured similar performance, such that this consistency leads to an overall increase in accuracy and dependability.

In the shown embodiment, the pressurized gas canister 20 is in fluid communication with the reservoir 30 via a line extending through the handle. In some embodiments a canister valve is disposed between the pressurized gas canister 20 and the reservoir 30, allowing a user to selectively charge the reservoir 30 with a desired volume of pressurized gas. In such embodiments, the canister valve can remain closed when the trigger 22 is actuated, ensuring that the pressurized gas canister 20 is not unnecessarily drained if the trigger 22 is depressed for an extended length of time.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a perspective view of the tripwire of an embodiment of the tripwire launcher. The tripwire 17 comprises a plurality of lines 23 extending from a connection point 24. A weighted element 18 is disposed on a distal end 25 of each of the plurality of lines 23. In the shown embodiment, the weighted elements 18 are permanently affixed to the distal end 25 via a pair of securement members 28 disposed on opposing sides of the weighted element 18. In this way, the weighted element 18 is prevented from shifting along the length of the plurality of lines 23, thereby ensuring the flight path of the tripwire 17 isn't altered by shifts in the center of gravity thereof. In the shown embodiment, the weighted elements 18 comprise spherical members to reduce drag during flight. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of lines 23 are disposed equiangularly about the connection point 24, such that the tripwire 17 is evenly balanced. Additionally, this equiangular configuration ensures steady rotation about the connection point 24 during flight, as rotational forces are evenly distributed through the plurality of lines 23, thereby ensuring that the weighted elements 18 properly wrap about a target when impacted by the tripwire 17. In this way, the tripwire 17 more effectively restrains the target.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown an exploded view of an embodiment of the tripwire launcher. In the illustrated embodiment, the tripwire launcher further comprises a compartment 26 removably securable to the second end 14 of the housing 12. In some embodiments, the compartment 26 is removably secured via friction fit, however, in alternate embodiments, the compartment 26 can be secured via threading or other securement means. The compartment 26 is dimensioned to store at least one additional tripwire 17 therein. In this way, the user can readily retrieve an additional tripwire 17, allowing a user to rapidly fire a subsequent shot if necessary.

It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in various embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention. 

1. A tripwire launcher, comprising: a housing having a first end opposite a second end; a handle extending orthogonally from the second end; a barrel affixed to the first end; a tripwire having weighted elements disposed on opposing ends thereof; wherein the tripwire is dimensioned to be removably secured within the barrel; a pressurized gas canister removably securable to the handle; wherein the pressurized gas canister is in fluid communication with the barrel; a quick-release valve disposed between the barrel and the pressurized gas canister; a trigger operably connected to the quick-release valve; wherein the quick-release valve is actuated when the trigger is actuated, such that gas stored within the pressurized gas canister is expelled through the barrel.
 2. The tripwire launcher of claim 1, wherein the tripwire comprises a plurality of lines extending from a connection point, each of the plurality of lines having a weighted element on a distal end thereof.
 3. The tripwire launcher of claim 2, wherein the plurality of lines are disposed equiangularly about the connection point.
 4. The tripwire launcher of claim 1, further comprising a compartment removably securable to the second end, wherein the compartment is dimensioned to receive at least one additional tripwire therein.
 5. The tripwire launcher of claim 1, further comprising a foregrip extending orthogonally from the first end of the housing.
 6. The tripwire launcher of claim 5, wherein the foregrip and handle are coplanar.
 7. The tripwire launcher of claim 1, wherein the weighted elements are permanently affixed to a distal end of the tripwire by securement members disposed on opposite sides thereof.
 8. The tripwire launcher of claim 1, wherein the weighted elements comprise spherical members.
 9. The tripwire launcher of claim 1, further comprising a laser emitter disposed on the first end of the housing.
 10. A tripwire launcher, comprising: a housing having a first end opposite a second end; a handle extending orthogonally from the second end; a barrel affixed to the first end; a tripwire having weighted elements disposed on opposing ends thereof; wherein the tripwire is dimensioned to be removably secured within the barrel; a reservoir disposed within the housing and in fluid communication with the barrel; a pressurized gas canister removably securable to the handle; wherein the pressurized gas canister is in fluid communication with the reservoir; a quick-release valve disposed between the barrel and the reservoir; a trigger operably connected to the quick-release valve; wherein the quick-release valve is actuated when the trigger is actuated, such that gas stored within the reservoir is expelled through the barrel.
 11. The tripwire launcher of claim 10, wherein the tripwire comprises a plurality of lines extending from a connection point, each of the plurality of lines having a weighted element on a distal end thereof.
 12. The tripwire launcher of claim 10, wherein the plurality of lines are disposed equiangularly about the connection point.
 13. The tripwire launcher of claim 10, further comprising a compartment removably securable to the second end, wherein the compartment is dimensioned to receive at least one additional tripwire therein.
 14. The tripwire launcher of claim 10, further comprising a foregrip extending orthogonally from the first end of the housing.
 15. The tripwire launcher of claim 10, wherein the foregrip and the handle are coplanar.
 16. The tripwire launcher of claim 10, wherein the weighted elements are permanently affixed to a distal end of the tripwire by securement members disposed on opposite sides thereof.
 17. The tripwire launcher of claim 10, wherein the weighted elements comprise spherical members.
 18. The tripwire launcher of claim 10, further comprising a laser emitter disposed on the first end of the housing. 